2021 NFL Draft: 6 Prospects with biggest bust potential

Trey Lance, 2021 NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Trey Lance, 2021 NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Najee Harris, 2021 NFL Draft. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Najee Harris, 2021 NFL Draft. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

4. Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

Yes, Najee Harris is the No. 1 running back prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft. He dominated the SEC running through the competition like a man amongst boys. From his look, size and playing style, he earned comparisons to guys like Todd Gurley and Derrick Henry.

Harris stands at 6-2, 230 pounds and runs with a good combination of power and finesse. His vision improved over the years and he’s shown he can find the right lanes to run in. Plus, he’s a three-down back who proved he’s not just a runner, but a good pass catcher.

Harris caught 70 passes over his last two seasons. He added seven touchdowns through the air in 2020 while rushing for 26. And, unlike a lot of college backs, Harris can pass protect as well. Even with all that, not every team would give Harris the chance to succeed.

For starters, Harris is a rumbler; he needs momentum to get going. He doesn’t know what’s like to face heavy fronts or have teams key in on him. Harris benefited from a spread offense and elite talent around him. If he goes to a team relying on him to create, he could struggle.

Most of the teams picking inside the top 20 are better off waiting for players like Javonte Williams, Travis Etienne, Michael Carter and Kenneth Gainwell on Day 2.